The Chief Executive at Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust, Lyn Hill-Tout, has released the following statement regarding the £1million compensation they have paid out.

"After detailed investigations in relation to the care given, the patients, theirfamilies and the Trust have reached an agreement. Sadly, we cannot undo the past or the harm that some of our patients and their relatives suffered as a result of terrible care when they were at their most vulnerable. However, it is important to stress that this does not reflect Stafford Hospital as it is today."

"The care of our patients has significantly improved. This is evidenced by thefeedback patients provide and the support from our local community who useour services. We are not perfect and will continue to listen and improve sothat we become one of the safest hospitals, where patients are cared for withcompassion and receive the best possible treatment."

"In addition to the community feedback, there is independent evidence of ourimprovement and we encourage people to read this, so they get a factual andup to date view of the care they will receive when choosing to come to StaffordHospital."